A healthy diet for dogs

 

Diet logo © RSPCA publications and brand 2010

 

Make sure your dog has a healthy diet 

 

Terrier puppy eating from a dog bowl © IStock Photo / Shimmo


Facts

  • Without water to drink, a dog may become seriously ill within hours.
     
  • A dog needs a well-balanced diet to stay fit and healthy.
     
  • Dogs need particular food to keep them healthy – most human meals will not provide dogs with the nutrition they need.
     
  • Some human foods, such as chocolate and onions, can be poisonous to dogs.
     
  • An individual dog’s dietary needs depend on his/her age, lifestyle and his/her state of health.
     
  • How much your dog needs to eat depends on it's diet, his/her body weight and how active he/she is.
     
  • If a dog eats more food than it needs, he/she will become overweight and may suffer.

 

Things you should do

  • Provide your dog with constant access to clean drinking water.
     
  • Make sure your dog eats a balanced diet suitable for his/her age, lifestyle and health status.
     
  • Feed your dog at least once each day, unless advised otherwise by your vet.
     
  • Read and follow the feeding instructions on any dog foods that you buy.
     
  • Adjust how much you feed your dog to make sure he/she does not become under or overweight.
     
  • If your dog’s eating or drinking habits change, consult your vet, as your dog could be ill.

 

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